Firefighter Paul’s 999 Half Marathon Mission

18 MAY2010

Redcar firefighter Paul Lowes will be running with an extremely appropriate number in this year's Redcar Half Marathon, as he dons race number 999. Paul is expected to do well in the 13.1 mile race in June, hoping to finish in the top ten.

He said: "I haven't done the Redcar Half Marathon since 2003, when I came second, so I'm really looking forward to it."

Paul, from Guisborough, was encouraged to enter the June 13 race by a friend, he runs for North York Moors Athletic club, so needed no special training for the event. He hopes to complete the Half Marathon in around 70 minutes

“I like the Redcar Half Marathon because it's local, it's really scenic, well-organised and it's well-supported - and because the route this year goes past my fire station twice!" he said.

This year's Redcar Half Marathon is predicted to attract even more runners than the 1600 who took part last year, as it will take place in the milder weather in June instead of mid April as in previous years. Prize money totalling £6270 will be up for grabs to attract elite runners to the event.

The race, which is organised by Tees Valley Leisure in partnership with Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, will once again be backed by Britain's best known Paralympic star and gold medalist, Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson. It will be supported by the Local Enterprise Growth Initiative (LEGI) with sponsorship from TFM Radio and Magic 1170 and Hatton Traffic.

Race organiser Paddy Corcoran, Managing Director of Tees Valley Leisure, said: "We're certainly attracting some high-calibre entrants to the Half Marathon again this year, and we're delighted to have such a top-notch local contender as Paul taking part. We wish him good luck - perhaps he can beat his last position!"

Entry forms for the Redcar Half Marathon are now available online from the Tees Valley Leisure website.